Hypertension

1. Pathology
Course Facilitator: Dr Umer Hamid
Name: Zoya
Roll No : 021
Department: HND

2. Terminology Of Hypertension
What Is Hypertension?
 Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a medical condition
where the force of blood against the walls of blood vessels is consistently
higher than normal.
 When someone has hypertension, their blood pressure consistently exceeds the normal
range. Normal blood pressure is generally considered to be below 120/80 mmHg.
Hypertension is typically diagnosed when blood pressure readings consistently reach or
exceed 130/80 mmHg.

3. Hypertension Classification:
 Prehypertension: SBP 120-139 mmHg or DBP 80-89 mmHg. It
signifies an increased risk of developing hypertension.
 Stage 1 Hypertension: SBP 140-159 mmHg or DBP 90-99
mmHg. This stage calls for lifestyle modifications and, in some
cases, medication.
 Stage 2 Hypertension: SBP ≥160 mmHg or DBP ≥100 mmHg. It
necessitates immediate lifestyle changes and medication
intervention.

4. Blood Pressure Measurements:
 Blood pressure measurements assess the force of blood against the walls of blood
vessels. They are represented by two numbers, such as 120/80 mmHg.
 The top number is called the systolic pressure. It represents the pressure when the heart
beats and pumps blood into the arteries.
 The bottom number is called the diastolic pressure. It represents the pressure when the
heart is at rest between beats.
 A blood pressure reading of 120/80 mmHg means the systolic pressure is 120 mmHg
and the diastolic pressure is 80 mmHg.
 Normal blood pressure is typically below 120/80 mmHg. Higher readings may indicate
high blood pressure (hypertension), which can have health risks.

5. Signs And Symptoms Of Hypertension:
 Most people with hypertension don’t feel any symptoms. Very high blood pressures can
cause headaches, blurred vision, chest pain and other symptoms.

6. Types Of Hypertension:
 There are two main types of hypertension: primary (essential) hypertension and
secondary hypertension.
 Primary Hypertension: Also known as essential hypertension, it is the
most common type (90-95% cases). The exact cause is unknown, but factors
like genetics, lifestyle, and age contribute.
 Secondary Hypertension: Resulting from an underlying medical
condition or medication, it accounts for 5-10% of hypertension cases.
Identifying and treating the underlying cause is crucial.

7. Risk Factors Of Hypertension:
 Modifiable Risk Factors:
Factors that can be controlled
or changed, such as smoking,
poor diet, sedentary lifestyle,
obesity, excessive alcohol
consumption, and stress.
 Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:
Factors beyond our control,
including age (≥65), family
history, ethnicity (African
descent), and certain genetic
traits

8. Complications:
 End-Organ Damage:Chronic hypertension can damage vital
organs such as the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes, leading to
conditions like heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and vision
problems.
 Hypertensive Crisis: A severe and potentially life-threatening
condition characterized by extremely high blood pressure
(>180/120 mmHg). It requires immediate medical attention.

9. Treatment And Management:
 Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging healthy habits like regular
exercise, a balanced diet (low sodium), weight management,
smoking cessation, stress reduction, and moderation of alcohol
intake.
 Medications: Various classes of drugs are available to control
hypertension, including diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors,
calcium channel blockers, and others. They should be taken under
medical supervision.

10. Monitoring Blood Pressure:
 Home Blood Pressure Monitoring: Regular
self-measurement of blood pressure using a home
blood pressure monitor.
 Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring
(ABPM): A portable device worn for 24 hours,
measuring blood pressure at regular intervals.
 In-Office Blood Pressure Measurement: Blood
pressure measurement taken during a healthcare
visit, often using a sphygmomanometer.

11. Conclusion:
 Hypertension is a prevalent and serious medical condition with
long-term health implications.
 By familiarizing ourselves with the terminology and concepts
discussed today, we can take proactive steps to prevent, manage,
and control hypertension effectively.
 Thank you for your attention.